Common Name: White-necked Heron

Distribution: Ranges across mainland Australia and Tasmania.

Ecological Notes: Commonly observed in shallow fresh waters, including farm dams, flooded pastures, claypans, and even roadside ditches. It is sometimes seen in tidal areas of estuaries and embayments. The species preys upon insects, crustaceans, frogs, and fish. It has also been observed preying upon young ducklings and small mammals.

Additional Notes: White-necked Herons feed by wading in shallow water or stalking through wet grass looking for prey. The species has been observed harassing species of ibis and raptors, often stealing prey they have caught.

References: eBird Australia at https://ebird.org/species/pacher1 Accessed 14 August 2023.
Birds in Backyards at https://www.birdsinbackyards.net/species/Ardea-pacifica Accessed 24 July 2023.